Jake’s charity run
Following in his brother’s footsteps, 16-year-old Jake Priestly (right) has stepped up to take on the 15th annual Great Wheelbarrow Race as a solo competitor. In 2015, Jake’s brother Josh won the male solo category and it was his determination that inspired his younger brother, Jake, to take on the challenge. The Great Wheelbarrow Race will take teams from Chillagoe to Mareeba in a three-day, 140km endurance event from May 18-20.
FOLLOWING in his brother’s footsteps, 16-year-old Jake Priestly has stepped up to take on the 15th annual Great Wheelbarrow Race as a solo competitor.
In 2015, Jake’s brother Josh won the male solo category and it was his determination that inspired his younger brother, Jake to take on the challenge.
The Great Wheelbarrow Race will take teams from Chillagoe to Mareeba in a three-day, 140km endurance event from May 18-20.
“Watching Josh do the race solo three years ago has motivated me to do the same thing and give it a go,” Jake said.
“It’s all for charity, so why not.”
The St Stephen’s Catholic College student will compete in this year’s event to raise money for Rosie’s, a local charity which reaches out to those less fortunate in the community.
“I volunteer for Rosie’s with my mum and dad every month and it’s a really great charity that gives back to the local community,” Jake said.
“Rosie’s reaches out to those most in need, those people who are lonely, abandoned, and marginalised within our communities.”
Great Wheelbarrow Race chairman and Mareeba Shire councillor Nipper Brown encouraged teams to nominate for next month’s event.
“Nominations close on May 7 but don’t leave it until the last minute to put your team in,” he said.
To nominate a team, visit www.greatwheelbarrowrace.com to register
To help Jake Priestly raise money for his chosen charity, visit: http://rosies.strikingly.com/ if you would like to donate or find out more.